Two die, 10 injured on tanker explosion as hoodlums attack responders

Etim Ekpimah

Two people have been killed when a tanker loaded with 45,000 litres of fuel exploded at Kara Bridge, outward Lagos along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

It was gathered that 10 people, who were injured in the accident received treatment on the spot, while 23 vehicles – one tanker; one luxury passenger bus; two articulated vehicles and 19 cars were affected.

Director General/Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, said the agency responded to the incident at 1.05am according to the stipulated emergency response plan.

According to him, the joint team (Lagos Fire and LASEMA) was ambushed on arrival by a group of Fulani boys carrying dangerous weapons and the responders were forced to seek extra police cover from the Isheri Police Station.

“The operation commenced with the police protection until the group of assailants grew larger and caused significant damage to vehicles and threats to life of our personnel.

“The team has been forced to suspend the recovery operation for safety reasons.

“Following the previous attempt in which our responders were attacked, the agency and responders, accompanied by security reinforcements, were able to return to the scene and contain the fire resulting from an explosion which was caused by an overturned petrol tanker containing 45,000 litres of fuel.

“It is of note that this attack is part of a very worrisome trend of first responders being attacked in the course of their duties. Lagosians are urged to refrain from endangering the lives of emergency responders and allow to carry out their lifesaving duties.

“Post-disaster assessment is as follows; two fatalities (driver of tanker and motor boy); 10 casualties, who received on the spot treatment; 23 vehicles affected including one tanker containing the 45000 litres of petrol; one luxurious passenger bus; two articulated vehicles, and 19 cars.”